Jim D'Arcy (Fine Gael)

I am delighted with the Minister's statement that he would be prepared to go into consultation under an IR framework. I asked that question of him the other day but did not like to ask it again. I am very pleased.

As regards ethos, when I was applying for my first job as a principal many years ago, I was brought before a Sanhedrin of three respectable, strong priests. They asked me if I thought somebody without religion could teach religion. I said "Yes". My competitor for the post said "No". I got the job. The basis for it was that all things being equal, a professional can do a professional job. In fact, my son's religion teacher at his secondary school is a confirmed atheist.